What is machine learning in GIS?
Dec 2024
Dec 2024
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Machine learning in geographic information systems (GIS) is reshaping how industries operate, from construction and engineering to government and insurance. By combining machine learning with geospatial data, organizations can gain fresh insights that inform smarter decisions.
Explore what machine learning means for spatial analysis, learn its benefits, and examine how Nearmap is leveraging these technologies to drive innovation.
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What is machine learning for geospatial analysis?
Machine learning for geospatial data refers to the application of algorithms that enable computers to learn from and make predictions based on geospatial information. By integrating machine learning into GIS, organizations can enhance their spatial analysis capabilities, enabling more informed decision-making.
Machine learning models thrive on diverse spatial data, such as terrain maps, population density statistics, and environmental conditions. This approach provides the foundation for valuable new applications, from urban planning to disaster response.
At Nearmap, we’ve integrated artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into our aerial imagery processes, enabling us to deliver insights at an impressive scale. According to Dr. Michael Bewley, Senior Director of AI Systems at Nearmap, “We do AI at the same scale that we do imagery.” With each aerial survey, our customers gain access to over 200 AI-derived insights about specific locations — covering everything from vegetation to construction sites.
What are the advantages of machine learning in GIS?
The combination of GIS and machine learning offers fantastic benefits for organizations:
- Enhanced accuracy: One of the standout benefits of machine learning is improved accuracy. Machine learning algorithms minimize human error by leveraging large datasets, allowing for insights that manual methods might miss. Nearmap AI models provide optimal accuracy, delivering results that are hard to achieve through traditional labeling methods.
- Increased efficiency: By automating data processing, professionals can analyze billions of features across vast areas simultaneously, which means faster insights and time saved.
- Predictive capabilities: With machine learning, GIS can help anticipate future trends based on historical data. This is invaluable for sectors like urban planning and disaster management, where proactive decision-making is crucial.
- Scalability: The power of machine learning makes it easy to handle large datasets. This scalability is essential for comprehensive geospatial analysis, particularly in complex fields like environmental science and urban development.
Applications of machine learning in GIS
Machine learning is already making waves in various applications, including:
- Urban planning: By analyzing factors like population density and land use, machine learning can help urban planners make informed decisions about resource allocation and development.
- Environmental monitoring: By processing environmental data, machine learning uses image segmentation techniques to help track changes in land use, monitor deforestation, and assess climate change impacts.
- Transportation and logistics: Optimizing route planning and analyzing traffic patterns are just a couple of ways machine learning is streamlining transportation and logistics.
- Disaster management: Machine learning aids in predicting and managing natural disasters by analyzing both historical and real-time data, enabling quicker and more effective responses.
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The Nearmap approach to AI and machine learning
We’ve developed a seamless system that combines aerial imagery with AI and machine learning to deliver enhanced insights to our customers. With our latest updates, users can access more than 130 data layers organized into AI Packs, providing valuable, scaleable geospatial intelligence on a wide range of features — from roof conditions to surface types.
Imagine the possibilities with 3D mapping data — our immersive high-resolution visuals let you see your project environment in full context. Whether it’s a detailed 3D mesh for urban planning or assessing changes over time with our robust historical library, Nearmap technology provides a comprehensive view that transforms traditional approaches to location intelligence.
Gain fresh insights that inform smarter decisions. Get in touch with our team of experts today to learn how machine learning in GIS could transform your workflows.